However, to coincide with Brough's stance on the current work stoppage, it would be "unfathomably foolish" to think that Blueshirts management, led by General Manager Glen Sather, would let the Michael Del Zotto contract talks get ugly.

Granted, #4 is a polarizing figure amongst the inhabitants of Ranger Nation.

But in my opinion, MDZ belongs on the Rangers blueline for the long term.

And here are three key reasons why I believe he'll ultimately sign on the dotted line, without much discord:

In 77 regular season games during the 2012 campaign, Del Zotto registered 10 goals, 31 assists and was plus-20—good for 25th in the entire league. In addition, he put up 10 more points in 20 playoff games, including the game and series-winning goal against the Washington Capitals in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.